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The Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO) has announced that there will be a hydrogen fuel cell class at Le Mans in 2024, stating that the technology is “the next objective” in decarbonising motorsport.

Seven multinational car and parts manufacturers, a panel of experts and the French CEA energy research institute are participating in the project, which will see fuel cell cars competing at the 24hr de Le Mans race in six years’ time.

“Hydrogen is the future of decarbonised mobility,” said Pierre Fillon, ACO president. “We are no longer simply making promises of intention, but have already put our groups of experts and manufacturers to work.”

“We will be ready for 2024, and we will see a hydrogen-powered class competing at Le Mans.”

Endurance racing is well known for technological contributions, especially in the field of efficiency, that filter down to everyday road cars. The most prominent teams taking part in the World Endurance Championship (of which Le Mans 24h is a part) are better-known for their production models, and many already have experience with fuel cell cars.

A hydrogen fuel cell works, in simple terms, by converting a mixture of air and hydrogen fuel into electricity and pure water. The electricity is then used to power motors, while the small amount of moisture produced can be released harmlessly from the vehicle.

Hydrogen can be produced and stored locally using renewable energy at small electrolysis stations, and a fuel cell car can be fully “recharged” with hydrogen in a couple of minutes – clear advantages over both internal combustion and battery-electric technology.

“The decision to introduce a hydrogen category corresponds perfectly with the philosophy of Le Mans 24h and the World Endurance Championship,” said FIA commission president Richard Mille.

“The decision reflects the importance of these evolutions within the automotive industry, and the search for an alternative to the internal combustion engine as the principle source of energy on our roads.”